From Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek With Meals

Set out on a captivating journey to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain from Cusco. This full-day trek offers unparalleled natural beauty, with opportunities to spot llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas along the way. Priced at just $30.69 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, meals, and an experienced guide to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience. Prepare to be awestruck by the vibrant hues of the mountain as you ascend through the stunning Andean landscape. What awaits at the summit is a sight that will leave you truly mesmerized.

Key Points

• This 13-hour tour from Cusco includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, and a buffet lunch to Rainbow Mountain at an elevation of 4,850 meters.

• The trek covers a distance of 3.5 kilometers with an ascent duration of 1 hour and 20 minutes, offering potential sightings of llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.

• The tour is led by experienced bilingual guides and includes entrance tickets, water, and optional gratuities, with the possibility of renting a horse for 70 to 90 Soles.

• The tour is not recommended for children under 15, pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, back problems, heart conditions, or wheelchair users due to the high-altitude challenge.

• The tour has an average rating of 4.6/5 from 178 reviews, with positive feedback on the enthusiastic and bilingual support from the guides and the breathtaking views of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Rainbow Mountain Full Day Trek tour offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning and colorful landscape of Peru’s Andes mountains.

The tour lasts 13 hours and departs from Cusco. Priced at $30.69 per person, it includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, and a buffet lunch.

Travelers can also enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.

With a 4.6/5 rating based on 178 reviews, this trek provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to witness the natural beauty of Rainbow Mountain.

Itinerary and Trek Details

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from Cusco, typically between 4:00 AM and 4:30 AM.

After a 2-hour scenic drive to Qollasuyo, with a breakfast break included, the trailhead at 4,850 meters awaits.

After a 2-hour scenic drive to Qollasuyo, with a breakfast break included, the trailhead at 4,850 meters awaits.

The trek covers 3.5 kilometers, with an ascent duration of 1 hour and 20 minutes to the summit at 5,010 meters.

The terrain features a mix of flat and steep inclines. Along the way, you may spot llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.

• Pickup time: 4:00 AM – 4:30 AM

• Trailhead elevation: 4,850 meters

• Trek distance: 3.5 kilometers

• Ascent duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Inclusions and Recommendations

The tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the trekking experience.

Travelers receive hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, breakfast, and a buffet lunch. An experienced guide provides support in both Spanish and English. Entrance tickets, water, and optional gratuities are also included.

To ensure a comfortable and safe trek, the tour recommends wearing sturdy shoes and warm clothing, bringing water, a jacket, rain gear, and personal medications.

Renting horses for part of the trek is optional and costs 70 to 90 Soles, which can be helpful due to the high altitude challenge.

Health and Safety Considerations

Although the Rainbow Mountain trek offers breathtaking views, it’s not suitable for everyone. The high-altitude hike at over 16,000 feet can be challenging, especially for those with health conditions.

The Rainbow Mountain trek offers breathtaking views, but the high-altitude hike can be challenging, especially for those with health conditions.

The trek isn’t recommended for:

• Children under 15 years

• Pregnant women

• Individuals with mobility impairments, back problems, or heart conditions

• Wheelchair users

To prevent altitude sickness, it’s essential to acclimate properly and bring necessary medications.

Travelers should consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on this strenuous trek. Safety is paramount, so it’s crucial to consider one’s physical capabilities and limitations.

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Customer Reviews and Highlights

Travelers have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences with the Rainbow Mountain trek. With an average rating of 4.6/5 from 178 reviews, customers have praised the enthusiastic and bilingual guides who provided excellent support throughout the challenging hike.

Many recommend renting horses for part of the trek, especially for those with health conditions or mobility concerns. Reviewers consistently highlight the breathtaking views of the Rainbow Mountain and surrounding Red Valley, describing it as a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience.

Despite the high altitude, travelers with various backgrounds have reported remarkable experiences, underscoring the trek’s accessibility with proper preparations.

Getting to the Trailhead

As early as 4:00 AM, travelers are picked up from their accommodations in Cusco for the 2-hour scenic drive to the trailhead at Qollasuyo. This journey offers a chance to fuel up with a breakfast break and take in the stunning Andean landscapes.

The trailhead stands at an elevation of 4,850 meters, setting the stage for the challenging yet rewarding trek ahead. Key considerations for the journey include:

• Dressing in warm, layered clothing

• Staying hydrated and snacking as needed

• Monitoring for any altitude-related symptoms

• Communicating with the guide about any concerns

What to Expect on the Trek

The Rainbow Mountain trek presents a steady climb, requiring hikers to ascend approximately 1.9 miles over the course of 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The terrain is a mix of flat and steep inclines, testing one’s endurance. Along the way, trekkers may spot llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, wild camelids native to the Andes.

The summit at 5,010 meters rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the Rainbow Mountain and the surrounding Red Valley.

The summit at 5,010 meters rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the Rainbow Mountain and the surrounding Red Valley.

While the climb can be challenging due to the high altitude, the stunning landscapes make the effort worthwhile for those in good physical condition.

Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

To make the most of the Rainbow Mountain trek, hikers can keep a few key tips in mind.

First, arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Second, pack plenty of water, snacks, and warm layers to combat the high altitude.

Third, consider renting a horse for part of the ascent if the trek proves too challenging.

Finally, be mindful of your body’s limits and listen to your guide’s advice to ensure a safe and memorable experience.

Things To Know

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season from May to October. This period offers clearer weather, fewer crowds, and more comfortable trekking conditions for the challenging hike to the mountain’s colorful peak.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the Rainbow Mountain trek. The tour allows for personal provisions, though meals and water are provided as part of the package.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Hike?

There are basic restroom facilities available at the trailhead and along the hiking route. However, they may be primitive, so it’s recommended to bring personal hygiene supplies and be prepared for limited amenities during the trek.

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Belongings?

Yes, porters can be hired to carry hikers’ belongings during the Rainbow Mountain trek. The cost is around 70-90 Soles and this service can help make the hike more manageable, especially for those concerned about the high altitude.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities in the Area?

Yes, you can extend the tour to include additional activities in the area. Many providers offer options to visit other nearby sites like the Red Valley or ancient Inca ruins after the Rainbow Mountain trek.

Sum Up

This Rainbow Mountain trek from Cusco offers an exceptional value for travelers seeking a breathtaking adventure. With round-trip transportation, meals, and a moderate difficulty level, it’s an ideal choice for those wanting to experience the vibrant colors and natural beauty of this Peruvian landmark. Customers consistently praise the tour, making it a must-do activity for those visiting the Cusco region.

You can check availability for your dates here: